The Cost of Care Without Coverage

According to John Hopkins, a 2015 study revealed that the average cost of a doctor’s appointment for a new uninsured patient came out to $160, more or less.

Of course, this dollar amount changed depending on the state the patient was seeking care in. In Pennsylvania, for instance, the cost was $32 less, with an appointment costing roughly $128. Doctor’s appointments in Oregon, meanwhile, were around the $188-dollar mark.

What can be said is that if you don’t have coverage, similar to other products and services, location matters.

Also, know that the study indicated that 6% of uninsured patients were turned down care because they did not have insurance. That said, those who don’t have the coverage may have fewer options.

(If you don’t have health insurance, it is important that you know ahead of time of doctors and health facilities that accept uninsured patients; that way, should you need to visit a doctor as soon as possible, you will know where to go.)

Health Insurance Options When You Don’t Have Coverage

As mentioned, health insurance is pricey. Because of this, coverage may not be an available option. If you find yourself in this situation, know that you do have options.

If you are 65 or older, consider looking into Medicare, a government-funded healthcare program geared towards American seniors. For more information on how Medicare works, MedicareFAQ does a great job of going deep on exactly what Medicare is and how it operates.

If you aren’t a senior but are going through tough financial times, consider looking at Medicaid—another government-backed healthcare program aimed at providing coverage for low-income American citizens.

If these options do not work for you and you are between companies, you may still be able to stay on your previous employer’s health insurance. Research thoroughly to determine if this is an option for you.

Or, you could create your own emergency health savings, allotting a portion of your income to your health each month. That way, should a medical emergency take place, you have accessible funds to use.